One of the main hurdles to the success of small web development firms is the cost of the software used to create quality applications. If you’re programming for a Windows Server environment using either .NET or any PHP, you need the tools that allow you speedy and effective web development.
Visual Studio for example, is an absolute must for .NET development. Technically of course it’s possible to do without it, but practically inadvisable. It can cut your development time by over 80%.
If you’re developing in PHP, you’ll find that the latest iteration of Microsoft Expression – version 2 provides you with tools that allow the testing and development of PHP applications. Right from the famous Intellisense and the proper handling of Byte Order Marks (BOM).
Further, other development software such as Studio Expression has the provision to allow designers to integrate with backend coders. Drag and drop feature for rich data controls and Ajax programming are some of the notable tools that can greatly improve the quality and the speed of development.
This software is highly cost effective but the downside for small business owners is that they may not be able to afford it initially. And this fact might slow down the entreprenuerial enterprise in the field of software development.
To combat this, Microsoft offers WebsiteSpark that can jump start small firms and give them the push they need to make it to the big league.
Microsoft’s WebsiteSpark Program
WebsiteSpark is an innovative and generous program from Microsoft that allows small firms to use Microsoft web development tools for three years for free.
To participate in the program, your firm must have not more than 10 employees and must have web development and design as its primary purpose. To continue to qualify for the program, you must deploy a new website using the software tools within 6 months of starting the program and register it using the WebsiteSpark portal.
What you get
Those participating in WebsiteSpark are eligible for the following:
1. Three licenses of Visual Studio Professional
2. One Expression Studio license
3. Two Expression Web licenses
4. 4 processor licenses of Windows Web Server 2008 R2
5. 4 processor licenses of SQL Server 2008 Web Edition
The membership in the program must be renewed annually which can be canceled at any time. The only cost is a 0 fee that must be paid after three years of using the software or ending membership.
The primary beneficiaries of this program will of course be Linux developers who now have an easy entry point into development for the Windows platform. With the latest IIS 7 [Link to IIS 7 article here], they can already migrate their programming skills onto Windows Server using the FastCGI module.
Hosting and Network Partners
In order to participate in the WebsiteSpark program, development companies must be associated with a “Network Partner” which will support them and provide assistance. Some of these partners can also provide hosting services.
Appliedi.net is the leader in windows hosting. They provide a broad range of services from windows dedicated servers to windows vps hosting plans.
Click on the link – To learn more about the benefits of WebsiteSpark for your business.